Tributes pour in for Dr. Joyce Madigane

Premier Robert Ghiz says the late Dr. Joyce Madigane made a lifelong contribution to Prince Edward Island.

“Her devotion to her profession, along with her tireless public service, will always be remembered,” the premier said in a statement.

Madigane died last week from cancer.

“Dr. Madigane has served the community of Tyne Valley, Lennox Island and surrounding areas by caring for patients for close to four decades,” Ghiz said. “She was known for her dedication to health care and, over many years, developed a special relationship with the Lennox Island First Nation’s community.”

P.E.I. Senator Catherine Callbeck said P.E.I. has suffered a great loss.

“Dr. Madigane's life and career was characterized by her care and compassion for others," said Callbeck. "Her personal and professional qualities earned her the respect and admiration of all Islanders.”

Callbeck said she became P.E.I. minister of health the same year that Madigane moved to Prince Edward Island. She said Madigane epitomized the high standards of rural health care in the province.

“Although she is gone, she will live forever in our hearts and minds.”

On behalf of the P.E.I. PC caucus, health critic James Aylward extended condolences to Madigane’s family and friends.

“Dr. Madigane was an inspirational individual who brought so much to the practice of rural medicine in Prince Edward Island,” said Aylward.

“Her guiding principle was to offer the highest quality of care, through teamwork and partnerships with her colleagues and patients. She brought a level of compassion to her family practice that will surely be missed.”

Madigane received the highest honour that can be bestowed on P.E.I., the Order of Prince Edward Island, in 2013. She also received the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002, the Tyne Valley Citizen of the Year Award in 2005, and was named the Elder of the Year in 2010 by the Lennox Island community.